In a world where technology holds the potential to drive transformative change, Danton Kipkurui stands out as a beacon of innovation and social impact. A recent graduate in Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering from Moi University, Kenya, Danton also briefly served as a Management Trainee at PIM, where he continued his mission to empower communities through technology. As a proud alumnus of PIM’s Tech4Good program in 2022, Danton played a pivotal role in developing Wise AI, an app designed to help cattle farmers manage drought conditions—a critical issue in his home country. Today, we’re excited to share Danton’s journey of using technology for social good.
The Seeds for Change: Danton’s Introduction to Tech4Good
Danton’s journey with Tech4Good began in 2022 when he joined the Seeds for the Future program, driven by a desire to deepen his understanding of 5G, cloud computing, AI, and digital power. After completing an intensive online training program, Danton and his peers entered the Tech4Good Global Competition, a platform that encourages youth to create digital solutions for global challenges. This competition, organized by Seeds for the Future and PIM (Purpose in Motion), was a turning point in Danton’s career, allowing him to combine his technical skills with his passion for social betterment.
Addressing Drought in Kenya with Wise AI
Drought has long plagued the northern regions of Kenya, leading to devastating consequences such as crop failure, livestock deaths (with up to 70% losses reported annually), malnutrition, and even loss of life. In response to this crisis, Danton and his team, known as Team Synergy, developed Wise AI—a groundbreaking app designed to assist cattle farmers in detecting and adapting to drought conditions.
Wise AI leverages IoT sensors, satellite imagery, and weather forecasts to provide cattle farmers with real-time data about drought conditions. By geo-mapping their locations, farmers can receive timely information that helps them plan ahead, relocate their livestock, and mitigate the impacts of drought. The project was well-received, earning Team Synergy second place at the regional level of the Tech4Good program in 2022.
Overcoming Challenges and Learning Lifelong Lessons
Despite the challenges faced during the launch of Wise AI, Danton remains grateful for the collaborative and diverse team that made the project possible. For Danton, Tech4Good was more than just a competition—it was an extraordinary experience that allowed him to form lasting friendships with team members from different countries and work together under tight deadlines to create a solution with real-world impact.
Danton fondly recalls the unique aspects of the Tech4Good program, such as learning Mandarin, exploring Chinese culture through live-streamed classes, and gaining valuable insights from past Tech4Good alumni. These experiences helped him hone his entrepreneurship and problem-solving skills, particularly in areas like fundraising and overcoming technical challenges.
A Lifelong Commitment to Social Betterment
Danton’s commitment to social betterment began in his childhood. Growing up in Kenya, he witnessed the devastating effects of conflict, unrest, and drought. These early experiences, including the support provided by volunteers and NGOs during times of crisis, inspired Danton to dedicate his life to helping others. Whether it was tutoring children in his community or participating in youth and church groups, Danton has always believed in the power of sharing opportunities to uplift others.
Tech4Good: The Perfect Platform for Societal Impact
The core values of Tech4Good—societal betterment and philanthropy—resonated deeply with Danton. The program provided him with the platform to actualize his dream of giving back to society through technology. According to Danton, the ability to transmit information quickly and effectively empowers communities, making knowledge a powerful tool for change.
Looking Ahead: Danton’s Vision for the Future
Currently, as a Management Trainee at PIM, Danton actively contributes to the organization’s mission of empowering students with the tools and resources they need to succeed. By supporting PIM’s 10th-anniversary social media campaign, Danton enhances the visibility of the organization’s commitment to student success.
Danton’s long-term aspirations include becoming a leading engineer and eventually serving as Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for ICT. In this role, he hopes to provide every young person with the essential ICT knowledge and resources needed to thrive in today’s digital world, helping them realize their dreams and ambitions.
Connect with Danton Kipkurui
- LinkedIn: Danton Kipkurui
- X (formerly Twitter): @DantonKipkurui
- Instagram: @DantonCheruiyot
